This argument will instantly cut away from Kane to Bobby Moore, the elegant, unflappable defender who remains the only England captain to lift the World Cup, leading his team to triumph at Wembley in July 1966 as West Germany were beaten 4-2.
Moore was only 25 at the time, and had enjoyed success at club level with West Ham United, winning the FA Cup and European Cup Winners’ Cup before the World Cup. He won 108 caps between May 1962 and November 1973.
And then, of course, the conversation must turn to Sir Bobby Charlton, who survived the Munich Air Disaster with Manchester United in 1958 to become arguably England’s most famous footballer of his era.
Charlton was a global beacon of dignity and world-class ability, winning the World Cup then, two years later, captaining Manchester United when they became the first English team to win the European Cup, scoring twice as Benfica were beaten 4-1 at Wembley.
He remains third on England’s list of scorers, with 49 goals in 106 games.
Sir Geoff Hurst will always claim a special place with his hat-trick in the World Cup final win, while many others will have their supporters from recent times, including the likes of Wayne Rooney and David Beckham.
Former England midfielder Danny Murphy, said: “Bobby Moore will always be in people’s conversation. Sir Bobby Charlton also, because of what they did and the memories they created.
“As you move forward, for me as a kid Gazza [Paul Gascoigne] burst on the scene and became a hero, especially as a creative midfield player myself.
“I think Rooney was arguably the most all-round footballer we have ever had, the most talented I’ve seen – but no-one can argue with Harry Kane’s quality, numbers and longevity. It is the record of an England great.”
He added: “There is one thing there is no debate about. Harry Kane is England’s greatest goalscorer.
“No-one can take that away from him. The numbers over such a period of longevity are incredible. This, in itself, deserves all the accolades in the world. To stay at that level and not have anybody displace him is testimony to his ability and professionalism.
“He’s a born goalscorer. He’s a super professional. He’s technically brilliant. He’s been an absolute credit to himself and his family in the way he’s conducted himself and the longevity he’s had in his career.
“Is he England’s greatest player? This is all about opinions and eras, but his record and longevity alone informs you that he is an England great. He is in that elite group.”